Michael Sam is starting to suffer some of the same problems that Tim Tebow experienced in the NFL. He is receiving extra media attention, which in turn has brought on some perceived preferential treatment. And that has some of his teammates upset.
The Montreal Gazette reported about Sam’s CFL debut on Friday in the Alouettes’ 26-23 loss to Ottawa, where Sam appeared in 12 plays but did not record a tackle. Writer Herb Zukowsky indicated in his story that Sam was reluctant to talk with the media and is the target of some jealousy from teammates:
He should have been placed on the practice roster instead, but the organization has completely mishandled the scenario and Sam has become a distraction. He doesn’t play on special teams and isn’t considered competent. Privately, more and more players are criticizing the preferential treatment he has received.
That’s a pretty biting criticism of Sam, regardless of whether it’s coming from teammates or a writer. A lot of the problems have to do with Sam skipping out on two weeks of training camp to deal with personal issues, which many attributed to Sam having self-doubt about his abilities.
Another issue for Sam is that he is being paid more than many believe he deserves. All he can do at this point is work hard and try to make a difference on the field, which he has not managed to do yet.
